Kane and I have a situation regarding one of our children, and for now, things are in limbo.
A decision will be rendered not too long from now (this week, in fact) regarding our daughter and her future placement. I can't go into much detail, for obvious reasons, but suffice it to say it's been a very stressful time this past year, especially the past month.
This daughter struggles with mental illness, stemming back to the time she lived with her biological mother before coming to live with me and my family and eventually being adopted.
Her illness has worsened over time (she is in her teens), and she is not safe to be at home. She needs to be in a therapeutic treatment facility. The problem is our mental health system is in a terrible state of disrepair, and getting the help for our daughter that she needs has been extremely difficult. Kane and I are dealing with a system that is fighting us on this issue.
There was a segment that aired on 60 Minutes two weeks ago that highlighted this problem. If you have a few minutes, this will shed some light on what we've been going through. If you don't have time now, the link, for future reference, is
Anyway, that's where it's at for us right now. Life seems as if it's on hold. Kane and I are doing well, I'm glad to say........I don't know what I'd do without him.
Sadie, I am so sorry! The mental health institutions are so broken in this country and even worse in some states. I'm so glad you and Kane and there to fight for what your daughter needs. You are in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Leah. I really appreciate your support.
DeleteGosh Sadie, I feel so bad. Our mental health system is such a failure. There aren't enough beds for those in crisis, or the staff to help. We still try and blame the mentally ill for their disease. If someone has diabetes we wouldn't tell them to go home without treatment. If their sugars are out of whack we hospitalize them until they are over the dangerous period. Why we believe this will resolve on it's own is just a travesty. On top of the fact that many of our mentally ill are homeless and or in prison we continue to make the same mistakes. It is a testament to people like you that fight the injustice and try and help those we love have a fulfilling life. Hopefully change will happen!
ReplyDeleteFunny you should mention diabetes. One of my sons has Type I, and you're absolutely right. 'Travesty' sums it up.
DeleteSpeaking of change, I traveled to my state capital yesterday for Legislative Awareness Day. I wasn't able to meet with our local Senator, as I had hoped, but I will make an appointment to do so in his local office. The Chairman of Mental Health spoke yesterday and is very passionate about bringing forth much-needed change. I'll be cc'ing him on the letter I'll be sending to the senator in anticipation and preparation of my visit with the senator. Maybe my story will resonate with them......I can hope and pray!
Hey Sadie...Our mental health program is so broken...we have gone from institutionalizing all those with mental illness to turning them all loose to live on the streets and not providing help for them. Sorry...stepping down off my soap box now. :(
ReplyDeleteSending lots of prayers and positive energy that the situation with your daughter works out the way you need it to.
Blessings...
Cat
Cat, no apology necessary! Soap boxes are exactly what's needed, sometimes, IMHO.......lol. Maybe I can take you with me when I meet with the senator?
DeleteThank you for your support. Believe me, I can feel all the prayers and positive energy, and it really helps.
Sounds like such a tough problem, Sadie. My thoughts are with you as your fight to get the help that your daughter needs! You take care. Many hugs,
ReplyDelete<3 Katie
Thank you, Katie; that means so much. Many hugs right back atcha :)
DeleteSadie,
ReplyDeleteI don't know where you live. If you are in the US, may I offer my assistance? I do this for a living, and may be able to help you navigate the system. Please feel free to email me at dlmd517@gmail.com.
I'm late in replying to these comments, but as you know by now, Dana, I have taken you up on your generous offer. Words are not enough to convey my gratitude.
DeleteSounds like a tough thing to be going through. I'm so sorry, and I hope you're able to figure things out soon!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Kenzie; your support means so much!
DeleteI am sorry that you are still going through such a hard time trying to get the help that your daughter needs. But, through all this, I am glad that you and Kane are working together, and that he is behind you as you get through.
ReplyDelete{{{hugs}}} EsMay
Thank you, Es May. Difficult as this whole thing is, we are getting through it together. I just can't wait to get to the other side. Hugs to you, too!
DeleteI'm so sorry Sadie. I'll keep you, Kane and your daughter in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteHugs, Queenie
Thank you, Queenie. Your support means so much; I can feel all the thoughts and prayers, and they are very helpful. Hugs to you, too!
DeleteSorry I am late.
ReplyDeleteI am longing for the day where this is behind the two of you, and your daughter is where she needs to be to thrive. I know how difficult this is to be stuck in suspended animation, all the while watching the clock tick. Precious time taken away from her where she could be getting the help she requires.
You know where to find me. Until that time when I tell you in person, know that you haven't left my thoughts
willie
Ah, my friend, thank you. It is rather like suspended animation; I hadn't thought of it that way. Yes, I do know where to find you, and it won't be long before I'm bending your ear again, so be careful what you ask for....lol.
ReplyDeleteMay I just say that your last sentence left me looking forward to the time when we can one day meet in person. It would be an honor :)